<p>Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu made his first bilateral visit to India, meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 6, 2024. This meeting follows Muizzu’s election, which was heavily influenced by an “India Out” campaign aimed at reducing Indian military presence in the Maldives. During discussions, Muizzu emphasized India’s understanding of the Maldives’ fiscal challenges and expressed gratitude for India’s support in easing the nation’s economic burdens, particularly in development projects. The Maldivian President highlighted the importance of cooperation between the two nations, stating that the Maldives sees India as a valued partner. This reflects an effort to mend relations that had become strained during Muizzu’s tenure, especially after derogatory remarks were made by members of his cabinet regarding Indian leadership. Muizzu’s visit includes meetings with Indian officials and discussions on bilateral, regional, and international matters of mutual interest. His agenda also involves visits to major Indian cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru for business meetings, signaling a renewed focus on economic collaboration. This backdrop underscores India’s role as a significant development partner for the Maldives, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address shared challenges in the region.</p>